Assam Congress leader demands immediate reinstallment of Mahatma Gandhi's statue in Doomdooma
TINSUKIA: The removal of a historic statue of Mahatma Gandhi from Doomdooma town in Assam has ignited widespread condemnation and protests across the state.
The decision, taken without public consent, has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders and the local community.
Debabrata Saikia, leader of the opposition in Assam, voiced his disapproval.
"…the Assam government's decision to remove the historic Mahatma Gandhi statue from Doomdooma town without public consent is a blatant disregard for our heritage and the Father of the Nation," stated Saikia.
The Assam Congress leader added: "This statue symbolized our freedom and history. I demand its immediate reinstatement."
The statue's removal has sparked massive protests in Doomdooma town of Assam, where residents have gathered to express their outrage.
Demonstrators stressed the statue's importance in commemorating Mahatma Gandhi's legacy and the struggle for India's independence.
Author and activist Tushar Gandhi also condemned the action on X, stating, "Not surprising that the BJP Government in Assam decided to replace Bapu’s statue with a clock tower in Tinsukia. Their slavish colonial hangover persists."
In response to the mounting controversy, Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma addressed the issue expressing concern over reports of the statue's removal and possible damage at Gandhi Chowk in Tinsukia to make way for a clock tower.
“I am not aware of this decision taken by the district administration. Let me verify the facts. Assam owes so much to Mahatma Gandhi. He stood firmly with Bharat Ratna Gopinath Bordoloi when the Congress party led by Nehru wanted to include Assam in Pakistan under the Grouping Plan,” Sarma stated.